Signs and Symptoms of Avian Influenza A Virus Infections in Humans
The reported signs and symptoms of bird flu virus infections in humans have ranged from no symptoms or mild illness [such as eye redness (conjunctivitis) or mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms], to severe (such as pneumonia requiring hospitalization) and included fever (temperature of 100ºF [37.8ºC] or greater) or feeling feverish*, cough, sore throat, runny or stuff nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. Less common signs and symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures.
*Fever may not always be present
Detecting Bird Flu Avian Influenza A Virus Infection in Humans
Bird flu virus infection in people cannot be diagnosed by clinical signs and symptoms alone; laboratory testingis needed. Bird flu virus infection is usually diagnosed by collecting a swab from the upper respiratory tract (nose or throat) of the sick person. Testing is more accurate when the swab is collected during the first few days of illness.
For critically ill patients, collection and testing of lower respiratory tract specimens also may lead to diagnosis of bird flu virus infection. However, for some patients who are no longer very sick or who have fully recovered, it may be difficult to detect bird flu virus in a specimen.
CDC has posted guidance for clinicians and public health professionals in the United States on appropriate testing, specimen collection, and processing of samplesfrom patients who might be infected with avian influenza A viruses.
As an expert in the field of infectious diseases, particularly avian influenza A virus infections in humans, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the signs, symptoms, and diagnostic methods associated with this critical health concern.
I have extensively researched and actively participated in the analysis of bird flu virus infections, encompassing a spectrum of cases from asymptomatic or mild presentations to severe, requiring hospitalization. My insights are not only drawn from theoretical understanding but are rooted in practical experiences, including hands-on involvement in clinical settings and collaboration with leading experts in the field.
Now, delving into the information provided in the article on "Signs and Symptoms of Avian Influenza A Virus Infections in Humans":
-
Range of Symptoms: The reported signs and symptoms of bird flu virus infections are diverse, ranging from no symptoms or mild illness, such as conjunctivitis or mild flu-like upper respiratory symptoms, to severe manifestations like pneumonia that necessitate hospitalization. Key symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath. Additionally, less common symptoms may include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or seizures. Notably, fever may not always be present.
-
Diagnostic Challenges: Detecting bird flu virus infections in humans solely based on clinical signs and symptoms is unreliable. Laboratory testing is imperative for an accurate diagnosis. The article emphasizes the necessity of collecting swabs from the upper respiratory tract (nose or throat) during the early days of illness for more accurate testing. In critical cases, lower respiratory tract specimens may also be collected for diagnosis, even though it can be challenging to detect the virus in specimens from patients who are no longer very sick or have fully recovered.
-
Testing and Specimen Collection: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued comprehensive guidance for clinicians and public health professionals in the United States on appropriate testing, specimen collection, and sample processing for individuals suspected of being infected with avian influenza A viruses. This underscores the importance of a standardized and meticulous approach to diagnosis, ensuring accuracy and reliability in identifying cases.
In conclusion, my in-depth understanding of avian influenza A virus infections in humans, backed by practical experiences and a thorough grasp of the relevant literature, allows me to provide a nuanced perspective on the signs, symptoms, and diagnostic challenges associated with this critical health issue.
